THE SELF PROMOTER

Spot Them: Takes credit for your ideas; blames others for errors.
Stop Them: One fifth of American workers say their boss takes credit for their work.* Manage this boss by finding out what their objective is and then help them achieve it. That way, when they climb the career ladder, you can "ride their coat-tails", says George Karasoulos, director of national training provider Skilled Up. But don't trust them; when you have a good idea, put it in writing and copy superiors in.

THE "BUDDY" BOSS

Spot Them: Wants to be everyone's friend; avoids conflict.
Stop Them: The social-worker boss affects efficiency as they make so many allowances that boundaries become blurred, says Kevin Dwyer, director of management consultancy Change Factory. Personal relationships are important to these bosses, so attend after-work events and be seen to have a good time. The buddy boss thinks it reflects poorly on them if everyone's not happy.

THE MICRO-MANAGER

Spot Them: Controlling; scrutinises all your work.
Stop Them: Deliver what they want the way they want it, says management professor Wayne Hochwarter of Florida State University. Over time, your boss will focus on others perceived as more in "need of scrutiny". Buy yourself time, adds Karasoulos, by telling the boss a task will take longer than you expect. Then, you can finish early and move on to something else (without your boss breathing down your neck).

THE VAGUE BOSS

Spot Them: Doesn't know what they want until they see it, or can't communicate it; indecisive and hesitant.
Stop Them: Ask the right question in the right way to deliver the job they want, says US organisational psychologist Bruce L Katcher. For example: "So you want me to cover this; consult with this person; and then when that's done do ..." Still not clear? Tell the boss what needs to be done, and insist on their support during the process.

*Lake Research Partners, 2008